Inspiration

A Lavishly Glamorous Wedding in Indiana

These high school sweethearts met in 2011 at the beginning of their freshman year of high school. Malaika and Devon were in the same orientation class, and as fate would have it, Devon decided to introduce himself to her.  The two quickly became good friends, helping each other with homework after class. After attending prom together their junior year, their relationship became more serious and the couple have been together ever since.  Share in the joy of their big day captured by Ralph Vandale Photography

Bride: Malaika Brown, 25, Medical Researcher

Groom: Devon Owens, 26, Engineer

Photography by : Ralph Vandale Photography

Place of residence: Indianapolis, IN

Wedding date: September 20, 2020

Wedding location: Omni Severin Hotel, Indianapolis, IN

Wedding theme/motif/inspiration: Elegant & Lavish

Honeymoon Destination: Los Cabos, Mexico

Engagement story

After graduating college, we decided to take our first vacation together to Cancun, Mexico. We were both so excited, but Devon had his own plan all along. On the third day of our vacation, the resort was having a white party theme on the beach. We decided to attend and headed down to beach. As we stood by the ocean, Devon pointed out something in the ocean to our left. Not noticing anything, I turned around and saw him down on one knee. He asked, “Will you marry me?” It was truly a dream!

What makes your love special?

What makes us special is how we are each other’s first loves. We began as friends, and eventually grew to love one another. We are perfect for one another, and now have joined as one to fulfill God’s purpose.

 

From the Bride: 

Our wedding day was so beautiful and simple. I remember waking up and praying for this day to go by smoothly. The weather was perfect, and the room was filled with a spirit of happiness. It felt like this day was meant to be!! Being able to see our loved ones together in support of us, and to witness our union, really touched our hearts. Our family was overjoyed and felt the day was aligned with God’s purpose.

From the Groom: 

Our wedding day was the best day of my life. Being able to marry my high school sweetheart in front of our loved ones, meant the world to me. I have to admit, I was emotional. The day was just perfect, and seeing my wife in her wedding dress, was the most beautiful sight to see.

Your best/most memorable moment: 

Bride: My most memorable moment was our first dance as husband and wife. As we walked on the dance floor, with clouds dancing around our feet. Our song was “That’s What Love Can Do” by Robin Thicke, I remember just staring into my husband’s eyes as he sang to me. It was such a  moment between us that I’ll never forget.  

Groom: My most memorable moment was reading our vows to one another. When so much is going on in this world, I felt that I was making a eternal promise to Malaika. To love her, protect her, and to always be by her side. As I listened to her read her vows and promises, it deeply touched my heart. 

Wedding song, explain choice for song:

“I Know It’s You” (The Wedding Song) by Shelea; I selected this song for my bridal entrance, because the lyrics matched how I truly felt about my husband. The words spoke so deeply to me as I walked down the aisle. The song mentioned God’s time, and we both felt it was. Even when we considered postponing, our wedding day was meant to be.

Favorite wedding detail: 

Our favorite detail was actually our venue choice. We toured many venues in Indianapolis, but the Omni Hotel had exactly the decorations, structure, and uniqueness we search for. The gold & ivory ballrooms and chandelier’s contributed to our lavish theme. The venue allowed us to truly envision our wedding and let our dream come to life.

What are you most looking forward to as a married couple? We’re looking forward to fulfilling God’s purpose. We’re excited to build our legacy, to grow in prosperity, and to learn from one another. When things go back to normal, we are excited to travel the world and learn new languages. We hope to start a family one day.

Advice for a Bride/Groom on their wedding day: You have dreamt of this day from childhood, your teenage years, or even adulthood. Do not let anything, distract you from the love you have for one another. Enjoy your day, breathe, and have fun. 

Congratulations to the happy couple! We wish you a fruitful marriage and many years of wedded bliss!

Sources

Ralph Vandale|Love and Luxury Events|Omni Hotel Indianapolis|Essence of Australia|David’s Bridal|Men’s Wearhouse|Classic Cakes|DJ Ben|Makeup Glam with B|Hair Deevas- Donyel|BoKay Florist|PSR Designs|Antique Limo

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